The
visual perception
of any particular chain of stimuli reaching the eye is based on the totality of connections between the separate stimuli. This assumption is the basis of the Gestalt approach to visual perception. The originators of Gestalt claimed that perception is affected by the context, or configuration, of the perceived elements. (Gestalt translates from German roughly as 'configuration' or 'pattern'). They argued that the relationship between components, rather than their fixed characteristics, determines what is perceived. Thus a person perceives a whole or a
pattern
that may be totally different from the assembly of its individual elements. For instance: a tune is more than the combination of notes of which it is comprised, and a painting is more than a mere aggregation of blots of paint on canvas. If each part of the painting were experienced separately, we would not be able to comprehend the entire picture. It is the relationship between the various components that creates a whole new
pattern
with its own characteristics, which cannot be anticipated merely through the basic shapes of which it is comprised. This indicates that visual organization precedes visual perception.
Gestalt theory maintains that the constant attempt to perceive comprehensible formats is a basic aspiration of every organism trying to achieve and maintain inner and outer stability under any circumstances. The mechanisms created by the visual zones of the brain strive for an equilibrium of stable shapes, formulating a 'visual hypothesis' which matches the specific
pattern
of visual stimuli. Thus we tend to see familiar shapes in random patterns.
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| The Bridge at Courbevoie, Seurat. |
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| When the circle and open angle are separate they are geometrical shapes. Combined, they are perceived as a clown. |
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